Horse Riding in Bled

If you’re visiting the enchanting town of Bled, known for its fairy-tale lake and lush surroundings, a horse riding tour offers a unique way to experience Slovenia’s natural beauty. For $114.60 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3 hours exploring the countryside, including parts of Triglav National Park, on horseback. The tour is designed to suit all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned riders, and includes return transfers from Bled for convenience.

What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic vistas with a personal touch—your guide, Tina, or whoever is leading, will tailor the route to your comfort and skill level. Plus, the chance to ride through forests and valleys that few travelers see makes it a truly authentic outing. Another highlight is the included equipment and safety briefing, which ensures even first-timers feel comfortable and in control.

One potential consideration is the small group size, which is capped at five travelers. This means you’ll get personal attention but also need to book well in advance—most bookings are made 13 days ahead. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic horse ride that offers genuine access to nature, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a slow-paced, memorable adventure in the Slovenian wilderness.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: No experience required, with a guide that customizes the route based on your comfort.
• Convenient logistics: Includes round-trip transfer from Bled to the farm, saving you time and hassle.
• Scenic routes: Offers stunning views of Bled’s countryside, Pokljuka, and Radovna Valley in Triglav National Park.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety and share insights, making it more than just a ride.
• Limited group size: Max of 5 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.
• Weather-dependent: The tour is weather-sensitive; poor conditions might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

A Detailed Look at the Horse Riding Tour in Bled

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at the Mamut Slovenia office, conveniently located by the main bus station in Bled. From there, you’ll meet your guide and hop into a vehicle that takes you to the horse farm. This setup makes it easy for travelers arriving by public transport, since Bled’s excellent bus network connects smoothly with the tour meeting point.

Once at the farm, you’ll be introduced to your riding equipment—helmet, boots, and safety gear—before your guide explains some basic riding safety and techniques. This initial briefing is especially helpful if you’re new to riding, as it sets a solid foundation for a relaxed experience.

The Riding Experience

Before jumping onto the trail, you’ll start in the manege (riding arena), where your guide observes how you handle the horse. This step is crucial because it helps determine the best route for your skill level, ensuring everyone stays safe and comfortable. The arena session lasts around 10-15 minutes, giving you a taste of riding and building confidence.

Afterward, you’ll venture out onto the trail, which can be customized. The routes around Bled and into the surrounding valleys offer a variety of scenery: lush forests, open fields, and views of the distant mountains. The guide, who is said to be very friendly and passionate, will share insights about the landscape, local flora, and perhaps some stories about the region.

The Scenery and Terrain

The tour’s real appeal lies in accessing parts of Triglav National Park that are difficult to reach by foot or car. Riders can enjoy the peaceful silence of the woods, interrupted only by the gentle snorting of horses and the rustling of leaves. Those who wish to try galloping a bit—space permitting—can do so, as one reviewer noted: “If you want to try galloping a bit, you can do that here because there’s plenty of space.”

The route’s flexibility means inexperienced riders like Miriam, who called it “plenty of time for an inexperienced rider,” can enjoy a gentle ride, while more confident riders can indulge in a bit of cantering or trotting.

Safety and Comfort

Safety is clearly a priority, with guides explaining riding basics and observing your handling of the horse. The small group size further enhances safety and allows for personalized attention. Riders have expressed feeling very safe during the trip, even in forested areas.

The End of the Ride and Return

After roughly 2 hours of riding, the guide will drive everyone back to the office, where you can leave your equipment and reflect on the experience. Many reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most reviews are positive, it’s worth mentioning one less favorable experience. A traveler named Werda_M in 2021 expressed frustration after a no-show, emphasizing the importance of confirming reservations and understanding that cancellations can happen due to unforeseen circumstances. However, the majority of travelers, including Miriam and AnnaLena, found the ride to be enjoyable and felt safe and well looked after.

Miriam appreciated the friendly guide and horses, noting that the experience was “lovely” with “great views in the forest,” and felt that even beginners could comfortably enjoy the ride. AnnaLena highlighted the politeness of the guide and the beautiful forest scenery, which made her eager to repeat the experience.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At just over $114, this horse riding tour provides a lot of value for those who want more than the usual sightseeing. It’s a chance to connect with nature in a very personal way, riding through areas that few travelers explore. The included transportation and safety equipment** offset the cost, making it a practical option.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the focus here is on the scenic ride and the personalized experience. The tour’s small group size and flexible route mean you’ll get more attention than in larger, more generic tours. This makes it ideal for travelers who value authenticity and a slower pace in their outdoor adventures.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for outdoor lovers, nature enthusiasts, and first-time riders who want a gentle introduction to horse riding amidst beautiful scenery. It’s also suitable for families or small groups seeking a private, memorable day in the Slovenian countryside. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local landscapes from knowledgeable guides, this tour won’t disappoint.

However, if you’re hoping for a high-adrenaline gallop or a full-day adventure, this might not be the best fit. Remember, the tour is weather-dependent and small groups mean early booking is advisable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide will give a safety briefing and start you off in the arena, making it accessible for those with no prior riding experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and closed-toe shoes or boots. The farm provides all necessary riding equipment, including helmets.

How long is the riding portion?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, including the safety briefing, arena practice, and the trail ride.

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour includes return transfer from Bled, making it easy to plan your day without extra logistics.

Can I try galloping?
Yes, if space and safety conditions permit, and as one reviewer mentioned, “there’s plenty of space to try galloping a bit.”

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

Horse Riding in Bled offers a rare chance to see Slovenia’s stunning landscapes on horseback, guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals. It’s a well-organized, personalized experience that caters to all skill levels, with a focus on safety and authentic access to nature. The included transfer and equipment remove many logistical worries, letting you focus on the experience itself.

While the tour is not suited for adrenaline junkies seeking a full day of riding or advanced equestrians, it’s perfect for beginners, families, or anyone eager to enjoy calm, scenic rides through some of Slovenia’s most beautiful countryside. If you’re after a genuine, peaceful adventure that combines outdoor fun with cultural beauty, this tour is worth booking well in advance.

Additional Information

• Confirmation: You’ll receive confirmation at the time of booking.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Group Size: Max of 5 travelers per tour.
• Additional Costs: Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a picnic or refreshments afterward.

Experience the serenity of Slovenia’s natural world from atop a gentle horse—it’s a memorable way to see Bled through a different lens.